Getting to Know... The Bynars

Whether you know The Bynars as the futuristic, synth-heavy band stationed in Boston or the half humanoid/half machine race from the intergalactic show, Star Trek, the cloned names are no coincidence. Matt Jatkola (guitar/vocals/programming) and Mike Champ (drums/programming) named their band after the aliens epitomizing their approach to music by blending the human aspects of lyrics and instruments with the mechanized aspects of programming, production and electronic elements. That’s far from where their inspiration ends. In addition to even heavier electronics and danceability on their latest album, X vs. X(out September 17), they delved deeper into producing powerful, resonating lyrics. In this week’s Getting to Know, The Bynars took some time to answer some questions to give you an idea of what their life off the stage is like.

Where are you from?

Mike: Pomfret, CT

Matt: Massachusetts

What’s your favorite song? Who’s your favorite musical artist?

Mike: “Thriller,” Michael Jackson

Matt: Can't pick a favorite song, but I sing "Ooh Child" when I do my vocal warm-ups before every show. Favorite artist right now is Prince.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Mike: Northern California

Matt: In 10 years, I will have replaced Gene Simmons in KISS but no one will know because I will always stay in make-up.

Where do you want to travel but have never had the opportunity to go?

Mike: South Africa

Matt: Dollywood

Where was your first gig?

Mike: My first gig ever was with my old band at Desert Rain, Danielson, CT

Matt: First Bynars gig was in our friend Charlie's basement (where we also practiced) in Leominster, MA, early 2008.

What’s your primary mode of transportation?

Mike: MBTA Train and Bus

Matt: '05 Subaru Outback. Yes, we fit all of our gear + ourselves in this thing when we tour. It's quite cozy.

What’s your favorite weather?

Mike: Rain

Matt: I like when it's sunny outside, but I'm inside with all the windows shut.

Do you have a favorite piece of clothing?

Mike: Wrath of Kahn T-shirt

Matt: Moccasins

What’s your favorite movie?

Mike: 2001: A Space Odyssey

Matt: The Exorcist or Spinal Tap

If you could only have one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Janelle is the owner of Green Light Go. When she's not spreading the word on her favorite bands she can usually be found riding her road bike through Michigan, designing super hip clothes or analyzing people much to their dismay.Find Out More…

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Before we started working with Green Light Go!, we weren't even on the radar. Now people are starting to know who we are, and we are getting more attention and better shows. Plus, Janelle operates with incredible honesty, integrity, and passion for the acts she works with. Green Light has really delivered for us!